Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
Goodbye summer and hello fall in Ocean City and the other Jersey Shore towns.
Years ago, Labor Day would come and the Jersey Shore would roll up the welcome mats until the following year. Today, fortunately, it is a different story. The Jersey Shore stays vibrant through the fall and the holiday season.
People are finally discovering that September, October and even through the Christmas holiday season is truly a fantastic time here. The crowds have thinned out, but more and more people are discovering that the Jersey Shore is a nice place not just to visit, but to take up year-round residence as well.
Since COVID, many people have made the decision to make their investment/second homes their permanent homes. This is a great trend which is helping our local economy.
Weekends in the fall are host to numerous events up and down the Jersey Shore, which draw visitors from all over the Delaware Valley and beyond, helping our economy with activities ranging from block parties to car shows, cultural events and much more. With the events come the people who fill rental homes, motels and restaurants.
Even during the week, people are discovering how to take advantage of the discount rates, great weather and warm ocean water. The secret is out that the fall is the best season.
When I look down Ocean City’s Asbury Avenue nowadays, I see a retail outdoor mall extravaganza that I would put next to any shopping district in New Jersey. The quality of stores that have established businesses there during the past 20 years makes it a special place where shoppers can find unique gifts that can’t be found at the big box stores.
They can choose from quality women’s clothing stores, shoe stores, the unique merchandise from Stainton’s, the various surf merchandise from the new Ron Jon’s and 7th Street Surf Shop and much more.
Oh, and did I tell you about all of the fantastic eateries. You have great breakfast, lunch and dinner establishments, coffee shops along with many specialty food shops.
You come to Asbury Avenue for the total retail and food experience. You come to find unique items and support local entrepreneurs. When you finish on the Avenue, the next stop for your getaway is a relaxing stroll down the Boardwalk at night or the next day.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, remember our local business owners in Ocean City and the other Jersey Shore towns. They are open all year and need your support. Stop, shop, play and stay at the Jersey Shore all year. Come out for the block parties, parades, all the events and enjoy our beautiful area.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680
or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
